Dark Horses: Who Could Surprise Everyone?

The most beautiful thing about the World Cup is that nobody controls it. A 90-minute game on any given day can produce any result. And with 48 teams in 2026, the potential for giant-killing is higher than ever. Here are the nations who could crash the party.

Japan

Japan have beaten Germany and Spain in the same group stage, in 2022. That is not a fluke. The Samurai Blue are organised, technically excellent and exceptionally well-drilled. Coach Hajime Moriyasu has built a team capable of beating anyone on a given day. They will not be underestimated in 2026.

Morocco

Morocco's run to the semi-finals in Qatar 2022 was historic. They were the first African nation ever to reach the last four. They have retained the core of that team: Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri. A repeat run? Possible. A first final? Not impossible.

Ecuador

A young, hungry CONMEBOL side with genuine quality in Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea) and Enner Valencia (still scoring). Playing in North America gives them home-continent advantage. They could be South America's surprise package.

“Every tournament needs its Cinderella story. In 2026 it could come from anywhere. That is the point.”

USA

Playing at home, with a new generation of talent led by Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna and Tyler Adams, the US has never been stronger. The home crowd advantage at Atlanta, Kansas City and New York could carry them deep into the knockout rounds. A semi-final would not shock anyone who has been watching MLS grow.

• South Korea: consistent overperformers, 2002 semi-finalists on home soil who regularly push the favourites
• Senegal: physical, fast and technically improving, with Sadio Mané's legacy driving the next generation
• Turkey: Hakan Çalhanoğlu's leadership and a strong European base make them dangerous
• Australia: the Socceroos in 2026 will be fired up to prove their Qatar run was no fluke